Master of Reality | ||||
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Studio album by | ||||
Released | 6 August 1971[1] | |||
Recorded | 7–15 February 1971 6–13 April 1971[2] | |||
Studio | Island (London) | |||
Genre | Heavy metal | |||
Length | 34:29 | |||
Label | Vertigo | |||
Producer | Rodger Bain | |||
Black Sabbath chronology | ||||
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Singles from Master of Reality | ||||
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Master of Reality is the third studio album by English rock band Black Sabbath, released in the United Kingdom on 6 August 1971[4] by Vertigo Records.[5] It is regarded by some critics as the foundation of doom metal, stoner rock, and sludge metal.[6] Produced by Rodger Bain, who also produced the band's prior two albums, Master of Reality was recorded at Island Studios in London from February to April 1971. Guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler downtuned their instruments during the production, achieving what Iommi called a "bigger, heavier sound".[7]
Master of Reality peaked at number five on the UK Albums Chart and number eight on the US Billboard 200.[8] Though negatively received by critics on release, the album is now considered one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. It was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) after having sold over two million copies in the US.[9]
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